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After the seizure, two of the dogs and one of the cats were deemed to be in such critical distress and untreatable suffering, they had to be euthanized.

‘Unacceptable’ conditions

A hairless cat seized from Sandra Simans in Langley (SPCA)

Simans appealed the seizure, saying she was an animal lover and rescuer, who either kept the animals in a semi-sanctuary state or found them adoptive homes.

But a decision by the BC Farm Industry Review Board held up the seizure and non-return of the animals, describing some of the conditions there as “unacceptable.”

“I cannot stress enough how heartbreaking the circumstances of this case are. It is
truly horrifying that so many animals need rescuing,” the decision reads.

“Despite this, the noble intention of rescuing an animal from distress or harm or neglect does not provide any rescuer with an opportunity to create or perpetuate an additional albeit different situation of distress for a rescued animal to live in.”

“To continue such suffering, even under the umbrella of rescue, is unacceptable.”

Animal cruelty charges recommended

Moriarty said it appears Simans does not know how to care for the animals she claims to be rescuing.

“She unfortunately seems not to be able to recognize when animals require veterinary treatment and as a result the animals meet the definition of distressed,” said Moriarty.

The SPCA has now recommended animal cruelty charges against Simans, based on the September seizure last year, and are waiting to see whether the Crown agrees.

“She’s not in a position to be properly looking after these animals,” said Moriarty. “We’d like to see her have a ban on owning or caring for animals.”